Don't think the band was able to believe it when he tuned his guitar out like that - gives it a sense of unease. You can't see it there but the guy is a brilliant guitarist too (source: seeing him live).

It's a very interesting analysis. Those of us in the west are in danger of viewing Russia through a particular prism - our view of Putin is distorted by the naked torso pics that form a caricature view of a clever and determined leader - a lawyer and a spook who has been in situ for decades. Russia's incursion into Crimea maintains access to the sea and shores up the western border. The action in Syria positions Russia as a geostrategic player and also keeps a port open on the southern side. I ain't saying he's a nice guy but the West has underestimated him and right now he is having a moment there.

This is the end of fossil-fuel-based car manufacture by VW. There's no way back from something like this - their brand is mud, their product is a wash out. They should go EV-only, and fast, and sue for peace.